GlaxoSmithKline exercises option for cancer drug

As part of its June 1996 agreement with GSK, Human Genome Sciences granted a 50/50 co-development and co-promotion option to GSK for certain human therapeutic products that complete phase IIa clinical trials.

GSK and Human Genome Sciences will share equally in phase III and 4 development costs, and will share sales proceeds and marketing expenses and profits of any product that is commercialized, under a co-development and co-promotion agreement.

HGS-ETR1 is a human monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the TRAIL-receptor 1 protein, induces apoptosis in human cancer cell lines expressing TRAIL receptor 1, and has anti-tumor activity in a broad range of tumor types, both as a single agent and in combination with chemotherapy. Because HGS-ETR1 mimics the activity of the natural TRAIL-receptor 1 protein, it is considered an agonistic antibody.

H. Thomas Watkins, CEO, Human Genome Sciences, said, “We are delighted that GSK has exercised its option to develop and commercialize HGS-ETR1 jointly with Human Genome Sciences. GSK is an important strategic partner and a world leader in the pharmaceutical industry. We look forward to a productive collaboration for the development and commercialization of this novel anticancer agent.”

In July 2005, GSK exercised its option to co-develop and co-commercialize LymphoStat-B (belimumab), which is currently in phase II clinical trials in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.